Benton Ford - What to Know About the 2027 Ford Explorer The 2027 Ford Explorer continues to build on a nameplate that has been trusted by SUV shoppers for decades. For drivers who want three-row versatility, strong turbocharged performance, confident towing capability, and modern in-cabin technology, the Explorer remains one of the most well-rounded choices in the midsize SUV segment. It is practical enough for daily routines, comfortable enough for longer drives, and available with enough personality to satisfy shoppers who want something more engaging than a typical family SUV. At Benton Ford, we know many SUV shoppers compare the Explorer against models like the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Hyundai Palisade, Mazda CX-90, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet Traverse. That is a smart approach, because today’s three-row SUV category is highly competitive. What makes the 2027 Ford Explorer stand out is its rear-wheel-drive-based architecture, strong powertrain lineup, straightforward cabin layout, available all-wheel drive, and broad range of trims. Whether your priority is value, comfort, technology, towing, or performance, the Explorer gives you several ways to build the right fit. What Is New for the 2027 Ford Explorer? For 2027, the Ford Explorer is expected to stay close to its recently refreshed formula, which is good news for shoppers who already liked its blend of capability and convenience. The biggest addition is the available Sinister appearance package for the Explorer ST. This package brings a more dramatic, blacked-out look with dark exterior accents, black wheels, special badging, and amber running lights. It gives the performance-focused ST trim an even bolder street presence without changing the everyday usability that makes the Explorer so appealing. The Explorer ST Experience also returns for qualifying new Explorer ST owners. This complimentary professional driving school is designed to help owners learn more about the ST model’s performance potential in a controlled environment. For drivers who choose the ST because of its power and sportier character, that kind of ownership perk adds a meaningful layer of excitement. Powertrain Choices: Turbocharged Confidence for Different Driving Styles The 2027 Ford Explorer offers two main engine choices, both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Most trims use a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. That engine is a strong fit for everyday driving because it delivers responsive acceleration without requiring buyers to move into the performance model. For many families, commuters, and weekend travelers, the standard turbo-four provides the right balance of power and efficiency. For those who want more muscle, the available turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 raises output to as much as 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, depending on configuration and emissions certification. This engine is standard on the Explorer ST and available on select trims, giving the SUV a more energetic feel. The ST in particular is known for being quick for a three-row SUV, and its sharper personality helps it stand apart from many competitors that focus more heavily on comfort than driver engagement. Standard turbocharged engine: The 2.3-liter four-cylinder offers 300 horsepower and a confident feel for daily driving. Available V-6 performance: The 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 gives the Explorer stronger acceleration and a sportier character. Transmission: A 10-speed automatic helps balance smooth shifts, highway comfort, and responsive power delivery. Drivetrain options: Rear-wheel drive is standard on many models, while available all-wheel drive adds confidence in a wider range of driving conditions. Trims and Personality: From Practical to Performance-Minded The 2027 Explorer lineup gives shoppers a wide range of personalities to consider. The Active trim is a strong starting point for anyone who wants the core Explorer experience: three-row seating, useful technology, strong standard power, and a practical cabin. The ST-Line is a great choice for shoppers who like a sportier appearance but do not necessarily need the full performance hardware of the ST. It brings a more athletic look while keeping the efficient and capable turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Tremor trim adds a more rugged angle to the Explorer lineup. It is designed for shoppers who want extra trail-ready style and capability while keeping the Explorer’s comfortable on-road manners. Platinum models focus more on premium features and added comfort, while the ST is the enthusiast choice. With its turbocharged V-6 and performance-focused tuning, the ST is the Explorer for shoppers who want their three-row SUV to feel genuinely quick. Interior Comfort and Everyday Practicality Inside, the 2027 Ford Explorer focuses on usefulness, comfort, and easy-to-understand controls. The first two rows offer generous space, supportive seating, and a cabin layout designed around daily convenience. The second row typically comes with captain’s chairs, which make it easier to access the third row and give passengers a more open, comfortable seating arrangement. A second-row bench is also available for shoppers who want to increase seating capacity. The third row is standard, which is important for families, carpooling, and anyone who needs flexible passenger space. Like many midsize three-row SUVs, the Explorer’s rearmost row is best suited for children or shorter passengers, but it remains useful when extra seating is needed. Cargo flexibility is another major strength. With the rear rows folded, the Explorer opens up a large, practical cargo area for luggage, sports equipment, home improvement supplies, or road trip gear. First-row comfort: The front cabin offers a confident driving position, supportive seating, and a modern dashboard layout. Second-row versatility: Captain’s chairs are commonly offered, while an available bench can help maximize passenger capacity. Third-row utility: The standard third row adds flexibility for families and occasional extra passengers. Cargo flexibility: Folding rear seats create a broad storage area for larger items and longer trips. Technology That Feels Modern and Useful The 2027 Explorer features a large central touchscreen, a digital driver display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and access to modern connected services through compatible devices. Ford’s latest digital interface supports familiar apps and voice features, helping the cabin feel current and intuitive. When parked, select functions may allow entertainment and browsing features, which can be convenient during charging stops for devices, school pickup waiting periods, or downtime between errands. The Explorer also offers multiple USB ports and power points throughout the cabin, including access for rear passengers. Available premium audio systems further improve the experience for drivers who care about sound quality. The result is a cabin that keeps passengers connected without making the technology feel overly complicated. Safety and Driver Assistance Ford equips the Explorer with a strong set of driver-assist features, making it a reassuring choice for families and frequent drivers. Standard and available systems can include automated emergency braking, lane-keeping technology, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, and available hands-free highway driving capability on compatible mapped roads. These features do not replace attentive driving, but can help reduce stress and add confidence in busy traffic, tight parking areas, and longer highway stretches. For shoppers researching safety ratings, it is always a good idea to review the latest results from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety when current model-year data is available. The Explorer has performed well in recent evaluations, and the 2027 model is expected to continue offering a safety-focused package. Towing, Fuel Economy, and Real-World Use When properly equipped, the 2027 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds, and models include useful towing hardware such as a hitch, trailer wiring, and trailer sway control. That capability makes the Explorer a good fit for small campers, utility trailers, personal watercraft, and other weekend equipment. It is one of the reasons the Explorer appeals to shoppers who need more than basic family transportation. Fuel economy varies by engine, drivetrain, and trim. The turbocharged four-cylinder models are the most efficient choices, while the V-6 trades some efficiency for stronger acceleration. Rear-wheel-drive models generally provide the best fuel economy estimates, while all-wheel drive adds capability for drivers who value extra traction. For many buyers, the best approach is to choose the powertrain based on how the vehicle will be used most often. If most driving involves commuting, school routes, and highway travel, the turbo-four makes a lot of sense. If stronger acceleration and performance are priorities, the V-6 is a compelling upgrade. Who Should Consider the 2027 Ford Explorer? The 2027 Ford Explorer is a strong match for shoppers who want a three-row SUV with more driving character than many competitors. It is practical, but not bland. It is comfortable, but still capable. It is family-friendly, but available in trims that add sportier styling, rugged design cues, or real performance. That flexibility is one of the Explorer’s biggest advantages. Growing families: Three rows, easy cargo flexibility, and modern safety features support busy daily routines. Commuters who need space: The Explorer offers SUV practicality without feeling oversized from behind the wheel. Drivers who tow occasionally: Properly equipped models can handle up to 5,000 pounds. Performance-minded shoppers: The Explorer ST delivers serious power for a midsize three-row SUV. Tech-focused buyers: Large screens, wireless smartphone integration, and available advanced driver assistance make the cabin feel current. If you are comparing trims, think carefully about priorities. The Active trim is a smart entry point with strong standard capability. The ST-Line adds sporty design at a more approachable level than the ST. The Tremor brings a more adventurous look and added capability. The Platinum leans into comfort and premium features. The ST is the choice for drivers who want the most excitement. Our team is serving Paducah, Hopkinsville, and Mayfield, and we can help you compare these options based on passenger needs, towing plans, technology preferences, and driving style. Frequently Asked Questions: Is the 2027 Ford Explorer a good family SUV? Yes. The 2027 Explorer is a strong family SUV thanks to its standard three-row layout, comfortable first and second rows, flexible cargo space, useful technology, and broad driver-assistance feature availability. How much can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow? When properly equipped, the 2027 Ford Explorer can tow up to 5,000 pounds. It also includes helpful towing features such as trailer sway control and the necessary towing hardware on many configurations. Which 2027 Ford Explorer engine is best? The standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder is the best fit for many shoppers because it delivers strong power and better efficiency. The available turbocharged 3.0-liter V-6 is ideal for drivers who want stronger acceleration and a sportier feel. Does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer all-wheel drive? Yes. Rear-wheel drive is standard on many Explorer models, and all-wheel drive is available for shoppers who want added traction and confidence. What is the 2027 Ford Explorer Sinister package? The Sinister package is an available appearance package for the Explorer ST. It adds black exterior details, black wheels, special badging, and amber running lights for a darker, more aggressive look. Is the 2027 Ford Explorer worth considering against other three-row SUVs? Absolutely. The Explorer stands out with strong turbocharged engines, available all-wheel drive, useful towing capability, modern technology, and a sportier feel than many rivals in the midsize three-row SUV class. *Image may not be actual model Request more 2027 Ford Explorer information
What to Know About the 2026 Ford F-150
Benton Ford - What to Know About the 2026 Ford F-150 The 2026 Ford F-150 continues to build on one of the strongest reputations in the full-size truck market. Known for capability, smart design, and everyday usefulness, this pickup remains a top choice for drivers who need a truck that can work hard, travel comfortably, tow confidently, and adapt to a wide range of lifestyles. Whether your priority is jobsite productivity, weekend towing, family practicality, off-road confidence, or premium comfort, the 2026 F-150 offers a well-rounded lineup with meaningful options. At Benton Ford, we are proud to help shoppers compare the latest F-150 trims, powertrains, technology, and capability features while serving Paducah, Hopkinsville, and Mayfield. The 2026 model year brings familiar F-150 strengths forward while adding thoughtful updates, including broader hybrid availability, new appearance options, and connected technology designed to make ownership more convenient. If you are researching your next truck, this overview will help you understand what stands out and what to consider before scheduling a test drive. Built Around Strength, Choice, and Everyday Use The 2026 Ford F-150 is not a one-size-fits-all truck. Ford offers the lineup in multiple trims, cab styles, bed lengths, engines, and appearance packages so drivers can match a truck to real needs instead of settling for a generic configuration. The range includes XL, STX, XLT, Lariat, Tremor, King Ranch, Platinum, and Raptor models, each with a distinct purpose and personality. For work-focused buyers, the XL and XLT trims bring durable capability and practical features. Drivers who want bold styling may be drawn to the STX, especially with available sport-inspired packages. The Lariat adds more comfort and technology, while King Ranch and Platinum models focus on upscale materials, premium details, and advanced convenience. Tremor and Raptor models appeal to off-road enthusiasts who want more specialized hardware and rugged capability. Powertrain Options for Different Priorities One of the biggest reasons shoppers keep returning to the F-150 is engine choice. The 2026 model offers a broad powertrain portfolio that includes EcoBoost V6 engines, a traditional V8, a full hybrid option, and high-output performance choices on select models. This variety helps drivers choose a truck based on towing needs, daily driving preferences, power delivery, fuel-conscious capability, or off-road performance. 2.7L EcoBoost V6: A strong entry point with turbocharged response, confident output, and everyday efficiency-minded performance. 3.5L EcoBoost V6: A popular choice for drivers who want high towing capability and impressive torque without moving to a V8. 5.0L Ti-VCT V8: A classic truck engine option with strong horsepower, familiar V8 character, and solid towing potential. 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6: A smart option for shoppers who want robust capability plus hybrid benefits and available onboard power. High Output 3.5L EcoBoost V6: Available on Raptor models, this engine supports serious performance for rugged terrain. 5.2L Supercharged V8: Available on the Raptor R, this powertrain is built for drivers seeking exceptional performance. The wider availability of the PowerBoost full hybrid V6 is an important point for 2026. This powertrain gives the F-150 a useful balance of power, refinement, and versatility. For many shoppers, the hybrid model is not just about fuel economy. It also supports impressive towing numbers and pairs well with available Pro Power Onboard, which can help turn the truck into a mobile power source for tools, equipment, recreation, and more. Towing and Payload Capability Remain Major Strengths The 2026 Ford F-150 is engineered for serious truck tasks. When properly equipped, it offers up to 13,500 pounds of max available towing and up to 2,440 pounds of max available payload. Exact capability depends on configuration, including engine, cab, drivetrain, axle, package selection, and equipment. That is why it is important to compare builds carefully instead of shopping by trim name alone. Ford also supports towing confidence with available features that can make hitching, maneuvering, and monitoring a trailer easier. An available 360-Degree Camera can help improve visibility around the truck, while towing-focused packages add equipment designed for heavier tasks. For drivers towing campers, boats, livestock trailers, equipment trailers, or utility loads, the right F-150 configuration can provide a reassuring blend of strength and control. Smart Design Features That Add Real Convenience Capability is not only about horsepower and torque. The 2026 F-150 also stands out because of features that make the truck easier to use during busy days. The available Pro Access Tailgate is a great example. It can fold down traditionally or swing open, helping provide easier access to the bed, especially when a trailer is connected. Ford notes that this design can help drivers get closer to cargo than with a conventional tailgate. Available Pro Power Onboard is another standout feature, especially for contractors, property owners, tailgaters, campers, and anyone who needs access to electrical power away from a wall outlet. Depending on configuration, this system can support a variety of tools, electronics, and accessories. It is the kind of feature that may not be top of mind at first, but once used, it quickly becomes a major reason to choose the F-150. Pro Access Tailgate: Helps improve bed access with a flexible opening design. Pro Power Onboard: Adds available mobile electrical power for work or recreation. Zone Lighting: Provides useful illumination around the truck when equipped. Interior Work Surface: Creates a flat area for laptops, paperwork, or quick tasks inside the cabin. Lockable Rear Storage: Helps secure tools, gear, or valuables inside the cabin. Flip and Fold Rear Seats: Make it easier to carry bulky items inside when bed space is already in use. Interior Comfort and Technology Inside, the 2026 F-150 can be configured as a durable work truck, a comfortable daily driver, or a premium cabin with upscale touches. Available features such as leather seating, multicontour front seats with Active Motion on select models, premium audio, a twin panel moonroof, and a head-up display help create a more refined experience. Even practical cabin features, like rear under-seat storage and flexible seating, show how Ford designed the F-150 for real life. Technology is another important part of the 2026 F-150 story. An available 12-inch center display, digital information displays, Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist features, available Ford Connectivity Package, and available Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving support a more modern drive. BlueCruise is designed for compatible highways, allowing hands-free driving while the system operates under defined conditions and the driver remains attentive. New and Notable for 2026 The 2026 F-150 includes several updates worth noting during your research. The PowerBoost full hybrid V6 is available across more of the lineup, which makes hybrid capability easier to access. Ford also introduces an available Ford Connectivity Package with activation, helping owners stay more connected through compatible services. Style-focused shoppers will want to look at new and updated appearance options. The available F-150 STX Lobo Package gives the truck a more aggressive street-focused look, including unique exterior styling elements, gloss black accents, large gloss black-painted wheels, a lowered rear suspension, and V8 power. The XLT Chrome Appearance Package and Platinum Satin Appearance Package also give shoppers more ways to personalize the look of the truck. Which 2026 Ford F-150 Trim Should You Consider? The best F-150 trim depends on how you plan to use your truck. If you need a dependable work-focused pickup, start with XL or XLT. If style and value are high priorities, STX deserves a close look. Lariat is a strong middle point for comfort, capability, and technology. King Ranch and Platinum suit shoppers who want a more luxurious truck with distinctive design details. Tremor is ideal for drivers who want factory-built off-road upgrades, while Raptor is the choice for high-performance off-road capability. When comparing trims, look beyond badges and focus on the full configuration. Engine choice, cab size, bed length, drivetrain, towing packages, seating needs, technology preferences, and storage requirements all matter. A test drive can also make a big difference. Some shoppers prefer the turbocharged feel of an EcoBoost engine, while others favor the sound and character of the V8 or the smooth strength of the PowerBoost hybrid. Frequently Asked Questions: What trims are available for the 2026 Ford F-150? The 2026 Ford F-150 lineup includes XL, STX, XLT, Lariat, Tremor, King Ranch, Platinum, and Raptor models. Each trim offers a different mix of capability, comfort, styling, and technology. How much can the 2026 Ford F-150 tow? When properly equipped, the 2026 F-150 offers up to 13,500 pounds of max available towing. Actual towing capacity depends on engine, cab, drivetrain, axle, equipment, and towing package selection. Is the 2026 Ford F-150 available as a hybrid? Yes. The 3.5L PowerBoost Full Hybrid V6 is available on select 2026 F-150 trims, and availability expands for the model year. It delivers strong capability along with the added usefulness of available onboard power. What is the Pro Access Tailgate? The available Pro Access Tailgate can open in more than one way, helping improve access to the bed. It is especially useful when loading cargo or working around a connected trailer. Is Ford BlueCruise available on the 2026 F-150? Yes, available Ford BlueCruise hands-free highway driving is offered on select configurations. It is designed for compatible highways and requires driver attention at all times. Final Thoughts on the 2026 Ford F-150 The 2026 Ford F-150 remains one of the most complete full-size trucks available. It offers meaningful engine variety, impressive towing and payload potential, smart work-ready features, advanced driver-assist technology, and a trim lineup broad enough to fit many different needs. From the practical XL to the premium Platinum and the trail-ready Tremor or Raptor, the F-150 gives shoppers a wide path to the right truck. If you are looking for a truck that can handle hard work, daily driving, long trips, towing, and personal comfort with confidence, the 2026 Ford F-150 deserves a spot at the top of your list. With so many configurations available, the best next step is to compare trims, review must-have features, and experience the truck in person. Request more 2026 Ford F-150 information